EV charging bollards are becoming a welcome addition to our car parks and high streets as more and more people purchase electric vehicles in a bid to help save both the planet and the costs of motoring.
As the sales of these electric vehicles grow, one of the biggest problems in the industry is the infrastructure to support them. To add to this the EV chargers currently in the marketplace take up space, can be unsightly and often sustain damage from vehicles knocking into them. This is why, working alongside Flexible Energy, Lydney-based Watts Urethane has supported the development of a robust and discrete EV charging unit which helps councils and developers install more chargers in convenient spaces.
“Having better access to on and off-street charging for electric vehicles in a variety of places is a fundamental requirement in meeting many governments carbon net zero targets around the world. When Flexible Energy approached us to help develop a robust polyurethane product to house their amazing charging technology, we were delighted to help.”
Andrew MacPherson, Managing Director of Watts Urethane.
“What we have helped to develop is a charger that doesn’t look out of place in a high street, car park or road as it effectively looks like a bollard. On top of this it is extremely damage resistant, so does not require a raised pavement or additional guarding/barriers to protect it from vehicle bumps or scrapes due to its tough polyurethane skin. Typically, chargers can be damaged by a rolling vehicle. This polyurethane charger will simply flex a little to prevent damage to the to charger and pavement as well as reduce damage to the car.” Andrew added.
The Bendy Bedale was launched at the “Fully charged Show” in May 2022 and caused quite a stir. The show was hosted by writer, broadcaster and actor Robert Llewellyn and focuses on electric vehicles and renewable energy.
Moving with the times isn’t new to Watts Urethane, being part of the Watts of Lydney Group, a family-run business that has been established for over 150 years, has meant they have always looked to innovate.
“It’s incredibly important for us to create products that don’t need replacing to avoid unnecessary waste and anything that helps reduce costs and supports the move towards renewable energy is a good thing,” said Andrew.
To find out more about Watts and our Polyurethane innovations please get in touch.